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Wild Boar Fell

5
·25 reviews·, United Kingdom

A wild and remote fell in the Yorkshire Dales, offering expansive views, challenging boggy terrain, and incredible camping opportunities.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Dry, clear days

Avoid boggy conditions

CrowdLow
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Wild Boar Fell

Best Time

Dry, clear days

Avoid boggy conditions

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A wild and remote fell in the Yorkshire Dales, offering expansive views, challenging boggy terrain, and incredible camping opportunities.

5
(25 reviews)

"Experience a wild, remote escape with stunning views, but be prepared for boggy ground and changeable weather."

Vertical photo
TIP

waterproof boots are a must! 🥾

The fell is very boggy. Invest in good waterproof hiking boots with ankle support to stay dry and safe.

Pack for all weather! ☁️

Even on nice days, expect wind, hail, and chilly temperatures, especially at the summit.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Wild Boar Fell Summit

Wild Boar Fell Summit

Summit Trig Point

Experience a broad, remote summit with a classic trig point. Enjoy the feeling of isolation and expansive views.

Dramatic Escarpment Views

Dramatic Escarpment Views

Edges of Wild Boar Fell

Walk along the escarpment for breathtaking, wild, and remote vistas across the surrounding landscape.

Sunset and Sunrise Camping

Sunset and Sunrise Camping

Wild Boar Fell plateau

Camp on the fell for absolutely fantastic sunsets and sunrises, a truly magical experience.

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Planning Your Visit

Best Footwear for Boggy Terrain

Wild Boar Fell can be incredibly boggy, especially after rain. Waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support are essential to keep your feet dry and prevent slips. Avoid trainers or casual shoes, as they won't offer adequate protection or grip on the uneven, wet ground.

Summit Views vs. Remote Experience

While the summit of Wild Boar Fell offers a sense of wild remoteness and great views, the actual trig point is set back from the escarpment. For the most dramatic scenery, explore the edges of the fell. Consider the weather; hail and strong winds are common, even on pleasant days.

Best Times

When
Dry, clear days
Why
Avoid boggy conditions
Crowd
Low
When
Late Spring/Early Summer
Why
Best for camping and wildflowers
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

. 📍Wild Boar Fell, Yorkshire Dales Part 2 of 3: Garsdale Head ➡️ Swarth Fell 🗻(681m) ➡️ Wild Boar Fell 🗻(708m) ➡️ Lady Anne’s Way ➡️ The Moorcock Inn 🍺 Distance: 14.95 miles Elevation: 2445ft Time: 4h 55m #ukhikers #ukhiking #welcometoyorkshire #lovetheoutdoors #getoutdoors #your_explore #summit_adventures_uk #your_hikes #ukhikingofficial #hikingadventures #yorkshiredales #exploreyorkshiredal...
the.yorkshire.hiker
169 likes • 1.9K views

waterproof boots are a must! 🥾

The fell is very boggy. Invest in good waterproof hiking boots with ankle support to stay dry and safe. Reddit

Pack for all weather! ☁️

Even on nice days, expect wind, hail, and chilly temperatures, especially at the summit. Reddit

reddit.com

Advice for best time to visit Yorkshire Dales National Park?

reddit.com

Must-do hikes in Lake District and Yorkshire Dales

Camping for epic views ⛺

Camping here offers incredible sunsets and sunrises, but only attempt when the ground is dry. Reddit

Circular walk options 🚶‍♀️

Consider a 10-mile circular walk for a full experience, often ending with a well-deserved pint. Reddit

reddit.com

Suggestions wanted - easy(ish) hills/mountains with rewarding summits

Tips

from all over the internet

waterproof boots are a must! 🥾

The fell is very boggy. Invest in good waterproof hiking boots with ankle support to stay dry and safe. Reddit

Pack for all weather! ☁️

Even on nice days, expect wind, hail, and chilly temperatures, especially at the summit. Reddit

Camping for epic views ⛺

Camping here offers incredible sunsets and sunrises, but only attempt when the ground is dry. Reddit

Circular walk options 🚶‍♀️

Consider a 10-mile circular walk for a full experience, often ending with a well-deserved pint. Reddit

Remote and crowd-free 🤫

Enjoy a peaceful escape away from the busy trails, perfect for a quiet ramble. Reddit

What Travellers Say

5
(25 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Wild Boar Fell for its wild, remote atmosphere and stunning, expansive views, especially from the escarpment edges. The opportunity for incredible sunsets and sunrises while camping is a major draw. However, the fell is notoriously boggy, requiring proper waterproof footwear, and the weather can be harsh with wind and hail.

"A brilliant 10 mile circular walk up Wild Boar Fell yesterday, stunning scenery even though it was on the chilly side, howling wind and hail on the summit. A decent pint in The Black Bull, Kirkby Stephens after the walk."

Anth Malloy

"This is a lovely broad summit, and one of the nicest trig pointed tops out there. To come here on a nice day is a lovely experience. The summit is set back quite a bit from the escarpment, so there is not much of a view from there, but there is a nice seat to park your butt on for a while."

david howells

"Great views from the top, wild and remote."

Stuart Klinke

What People Like

Wild and remote feel
Stunning expansive views
Epic camping sunrises/sunsets

What People Dislike

Very boggy terrain
Harsh summit weather

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Wild Boar Fell is accessible from various points, often starting from Garsdale Head or near The Moorcock Inn. Many hikers use these as starting points for circular routes. Driving is the most common way to reach the trailheads, with parking available at designated spots. Check local maps for specific access routes and parking areas. TikTok

While public transport options are limited for direct access to the fell's base, the Settle-Carlisle railway line passes nearby, with Garsdale Station being a potential access point for longer hikes. From the station, you'd likely need to walk or arrange local transport to the trailhead. TikTok

Popular starting points include Garsdale Head, which allows for a substantial circular walk, and areas near The Moorcock Inn. These locations offer access to trails that lead up to the fell. TikTok

A 10-mile circular walk is frequently mentioned, often starting from Garsdale Head and incorporating Swarth Fell. This route provides a comprehensive experience of the area. TikTok

The terrain can be challenging, with significant boggy sections, especially after rain. Proper hiking boots are crucial. The ascent is generally gradual but can be demanding due to the wet ground. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Wild Boar Fell is part of the Yorkshire Dales National Park and is open access land. There are no admission fees or tickets required to hike or explore the fell. Reddit

As it is open access land, there are no set opening or closing times. You can visit Wild Boar Fell at any time of day or night, though hiking in darkness is not recommended without proper preparation. Reddit

There is no dedicated visitor center directly at Wild Boar Fell. Information about the Yorkshire Dales National Park can be found at nearby visitor centers in towns like Malham or Hawes. Reddit

Wild camping is generally permitted under the Countryside Code, but it's essential to practice 'leave no trace' principles. Always check current local guidelines and be respectful of the environment. Reddit

While there aren't official guided walks advertised for Wild Boar Fell, you might find local walking groups or independent guides offering tours of the Yorkshire Dales. It's best to search online for local outdoor activity providers. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The best time to visit is during dry periods to avoid the extensive boggy conditions. Late spring and early summer can be ideal for camping due to longer daylight hours and potentially better weather, though conditions can change rapidly. Reddit

You can expect wild, remote, and expansive views across the Yorkshire Dales. While the summit itself is set back, the edges of the fell offer dramatic vistas. Reddit

Due to the boggy terrain and potentially challenging weather, Wild Boar Fell might be better suited for families with older children or experienced hikers. Younger children may find the conditions difficult. Reddit

There are no facilities directly on Wild Boar Fell. You'll need to be self-sufficient. Nearby pubs like The Black Bull in Kirkby Stephen offer refreshments after a hike. Reddit

A typical circular walk can take around 4-6 hours, depending on your pace and the route taken. A 10-mile hike might take approximately 5 hours. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The escarpment edges offer the most dramatic photographic opportunities with sweeping landscapes. The summit area provides a sense of remoteness, and camping here allows for capturing stunning sunsets and sunrises. Reddit

Golden hour, during sunrise and sunset, provides the most magical light for landscape photography. Overcast days can also create a moody atmosphere, highlighting the wildness of the fell. Reddit

A tripod can be beneficial, especially for capturing long exposures during sunrise/sunset or in low light conditions. However, consider the weight and wind on the summit when deciding. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details in the distance. Ensure your gear is protected from the elements, especially rain and wind. Reddit

Look for the textures of the moorland, the dramatic cloud formations, and the sense of isolation. The trig point itself is a classic subject, and if you're lucky, you might spot some hardy sheep or other wildlife. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Wild Boar Fell offers a sense of adventure, but its challenging terrain might not be ideal for very young children. The boggy ground and unpredictable weather can make it difficult for little legs to navigate. Reddit If you do bring children, ensure they have appropriate waterproof footwear and warm clothing. Consider shorter routes or focusing on the lower slopes if you're concerned about stamina.

For families with older, more experienced children, Wild Boar Fell can be a fantastic place to explore. The feeling of remoteness and the chance to see a classic trig point can be exciting. Packing plenty of snacks and drinks is essential, as there are no facilities on the fell. Reddit A well-planned circular walk, perhaps ending at a local pub, can make for a memorable family outing. Reddit

🚶 Solo Hikers & Peace Seekers

Wild Boar Fell is an excellent destination for solo hikers looking for a truly remote and crowd-free experience. Unlike more popular peaks, it offers a sense of solitude and tranquility that is increasingly rare. Reddit The vastness of the landscape and the quiet atmosphere allow for deep immersion in nature.

Solo hikers should prioritize safety by informing someone of their route and expected return time. Good navigation skills and a reliable map and compass are essential, as mobile signal can be intermittent. Reddit The challenging terrain means that even experienced hikers should be prepared for slower progress than anticipated. The reward is an unparalleled sense of peace and accomplishment. Reddit

🏕️ Wild Campers

For those seeking an authentic wild camping experience, Wild Boar Fell is a prime location. The remote setting and open landscape provide a stunning backdrop for an overnight stay. Reddit Campers can expect incredible opportunities for sunset and sunrise photography.

The key advice for wild camping here is to choose your spot wisely and only camp when the ground is dry. Reddit Respect the environment by practicing 'leave no trace' principles. Be prepared for exposed conditions; the weather can change rapidly, and the fell can be windy. Carrying all necessary gear, including shelter, sleeping bag, and food, is crucial as there are no facilities. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Boggy Terrain

Wild Boar Fell is notorious for its boggy conditions, a fact frequently highlighted by visitors. Waterproof hiking boots with excellent ankle support are non-negotiable. Many reviews emphasize the importance of this gear to avoid discomfort and potential injury. Reddit The ground can be uneven and waterlogged, making it challenging to maintain balance. Trekking poles can also be a valuable asset, providing extra stability and helping you gauge the depth of puddles or boggy patches before stepping. Reddit

When planning your route, consult recent weather forecasts and consider the time of year. After periods of heavy rain, the boggy areas will be more extensive and difficult to traverse. Some hikers opt for specific paths that are known to be slightly firmer, but even these can become saturated. Embrace the challenge of the terrain; it's part of what makes Wild Boar Fell a wild and remote experience. Reddit

If you're considering camping, choosing a dry spot is paramount. Look for slightly elevated areas or patches of heather that might offer better drainage. Being prepared for wet feet is key to enjoying your time on the fell, even if you take precautions. Reddit

The Wild Camping Experience

Camping on Wild Boar Fell offers a truly unique and rewarding experience, particularly for those seeking solitude and spectacular natural light shows. Visitors rave about the absolutely fantastic sunsets and sunrises visible from the plateau. Reddit This remote location provides an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature and witness the landscape transform under dramatic skies.

However, the advice is clear: only attempt to camp when the ground is dry. Reddit The boggy nature of the fell means that camping on wet ground can be uncomfortable and potentially damaging to the environment. It's crucial to practice 'leave no trace' principles, ensuring you pack out everything you pack in and minimize your impact.

For the best experience, plan your camping trip during periods of settled weather. The sense of isolation and the vastness of the surrounding landscape make for an unforgettable night under the stars. The reward of waking up to a breathtaking sunrise in such a wild setting is well worth the effort of carrying your camping gear. Reddit

Summit Views and Beyond

The summit of Wild Boar Fell is characterized by its broad, relatively flat expanse and a prominent trig point. While it offers a sense of accomplishment and a feeling of remoteness, some visitors note that the actual summit is set back from the escarpment, meaning the most dramatic panoramic views are found by walking towards the edges of the fell. Reddit This distinction is important for photographers and those seeking expansive vistas.

Exploring the escarpment allows you to appreciate the wild and remote beauty of the Yorkshire Dales. The views from these edges are often described as stunning and provide excellent opportunities for photography. Reddit It's here that you can truly grasp the scale and ruggedness of the landscape.

When planning your visit, consider that the weather can change rapidly. Even on a clear day, the summit can be exposed to howling winds and hail. Reddit Therefore, packing appropriate layers and waterproofs is essential, regardless of the initial forecast. The wildness of Wild Boar Fell is part of its charm, offering a genuine escape from the everyday. Reddit

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